Role of Iron in the Human Body
Iron has many functions in the human body. Most of these functions are essential to remain alive! The uses of iron in the human body are as follows:Iron is used in the production of hemoglobin and certain enzymes that are required for a healthy body.
Iron helps in the transportation of oxygen in the blood to various parts of the body.
Iron acts as a catalyst for many metabolic reactions that are essential for cell growth.
Iron is important for the immune system and the proper functioning of the liver.
Iron plays a major role protecting the body against the actions of free radicals.
Thus, iron is a major element that is required for proper functioning of our body. If the iron levels decrease in the body, the deficiency can lead to:
Iron deficiency anemia, that is, feeling of tiredness and fatigue, breathlessness, insomnia, loss of appetite, pallor, etc. it can also lead to slow cognitive and social development in children.
Iron deficiency can also lead to some form of deafness, reduced bone density, etc.
Iron deficiency also leads to impaired brain functions. This results in impaired learning abilities and behavioral problems in infants.
Iron deficiency is usually observed in women of childbearing age, pregnant women and teenage girls. Heavy menstruation also increases their risk of developing anemia.
Low iron in the body can lead to intestinal blood loss.
